Questions about Chemical Peels

Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, & Maryland

 

What are chemical peels?

Chemical peels are non-surgical, non-invasive skin treatments which penetrate the top layers of the skin and remove unwanted blemishes and dead skin cells. Different types of chemical peels penetrate your skin more deeply and may be gentler or more effective for your desired results.

 

What types of chemical peels do you offer?

Nova Surgicare offers two types of chemical peels; Obagi and TCA. Obagi is generally considered to be gentler, while TCA is able to more deeply penetrate your skin for longer-lasting results. Both types of chemical peels have been proven to be highly effective in improving the condition of the skin, and depending on your desire outcome one may be recommended over the other.

 

What do chemical peels help with?

Chemical peels help even the tone of your skin, remove blemishes, may help alleviate the symptoms of acne, and give your skin an overall healthier appearance. Chemical peels may seem to reduce fine lines which are caused by dead skin cells, but do not replace lost facial tissue or add fullness or elasticity to aged skin.

 

How fast do chemical peels work?

Obagi and TCA both offer immediate results, but the greater benefits to chemical peels are in their longevity. Some patients find that, though their skin immediately seems healthier, they experience some blemishes in a few days following the procedure as the oils and toxins deep within the skin work their way out. However, these instances often resolve within a few days and are not necessarily indicative of a negative reaction to the peel.

 

Who performs chemical peels?

A chemical peel may be performed by a cosmetic surgeon, a cosmetician, or a doctor.

 

What are the risks associated with chemical peels?

Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to a chemical peel, or individuals with sensitive skin may experience a negative effect similar to a sunburn. In rare instances patients may also experience:

 

• Cold sores (in patients with a history of cold sores)
• Change in skin pigmentation
• Minor scarring
• Slight swelling
• Redness and discomfort

 

Which type of chemical peel should I use?

Only a trained cosmetician or doctor can tell you which type of chemical peel will better meet your needs. When you meet with Dr. Hamrah for your consultation, he will discuss your goals and your options with you and our team will help you decide which chemical peel will be best for you.

 

To learn more about chemical peels or to schedule your consultation, please contact Nova Surgicare today, serving patients in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia.

 

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